View full sizeRyan Garza | The Flint JournalReindeer are hoisted to the upper level of Flint City Hall on Monday while workers from the city's Parks and Recreation Department start to put up decorations for the Christmas season.

FLINT, Michigan — In the midst of a state-declared financial emergency, the city is now without its treasurer or finance director.

The retirement was "completely" Bingaman's decision, Walling said, and is a few months earlier than originally scheduled.

Walling said even more retirements are expected as the city heads toward
a likely state takeover and appointment of emergency manager, who would have the power to cut pay, change union contracts and make personnel changes.

"I
expect that a high number of senior staff will retire or leave in the
coming weeks due to the uncertainty around an appointed manager,"
Walling said.

Bingaman could not immediately be reached for comment.

Walling said the treasurer was a "capable professional who guided the customer service center through technology upgrades and staff changes."

"His expertise and service will be missed," Walling said.

The retirement comes just days after the mayor fired Finance Director Michael Townsend. Walling said he might make more staff changes in the months ahead as part of a reorganization in his new term in office.